If you’re preparing to welcome your first pup into your home, you probably have the essential items like a collar, food, crate, and bowls covered. You may have even found a reliable vet and the closest dog park. While these action items are clearly important, there is one more thing you should add to your to-do list: make sure you have a powerful phone loaded with the most helpful pet apps to guide you through your first foray into pet parenthood.
Powerful Technology
If you’ve got your finger on the app trigger and you’re ready to start adding anything and everything to help you along the way, remember that you can only make the most of these apps with the right phone. If your current device is losing charge regularly, has very little memory and takes terrible photos, it might be time for an upgrade. Look for one with all-day battery life and an ultra-wide camera. And with a powerful new phone in hand, you’ll be ready to grow with your new pooch.
We dug into all the pet apps out there, and chose a few of our favorites. Read on to learn more about how these apps can increase your confidence as a new pet owner and help make life a little easier.
Whistle
When you first bring your new dog home, they will be unfamiliar with its surroundings. You will want to make sure that you can track down your pet if he manages to sneak out the door or slips out of the collar and gets lost. You may also want to be able to track where he’s going when out with a dog walker. Whistle is here to help. This unique pet-wearable and app combination allows pet owners to track their animals 24/7. As a bonus, you can keep on top of your pet’s well-being with fitness and health monitoring.
Rover
Another excellent app for new pet owners is Rover. This app is a lifesaver for those times when you’re unable to be home with your pet. Rover connects pet owners with trusted pet sitters and dog walkers in their area. Whether you need someone to look after your dog while you’re at work, or you’re planning a vacation and can’t take your furry friend with you, Rover has you covered. The app allows you to search for pet care providers, read reviews, and book services right from your phone. It also offers features like GPS tracking of dog walks and the ability to receive photos and updates from the sitter, giving you peace of mind that your pet is in good hands.
PupTox
Did your new puppy nibble on that beautiful azalea in your yard? Did you find them in the kitchen noshing on an avocado you left on the counter? Use PupTox to calm your nerves and ensure that the items that have found their way into your dog’s mouth aren’t toxic – or to tell you it’s time to call the vet. This app is full of information on items that might be toxic to your animal.
Chewy
Chewy promises to have everything that pet parents might need, and their app makes it even easier to stay stocked up on pet essentials. From toys and treats to food and supplements – Chewy has you covered. With the Chewy app, you can manage auto-shipment of products, save your favorite items, and contact Chewy’s pet experts. With Chewy at your fingertips, stocking up on pet items has never been easier.
Scritch
Scritch makes pet parenting easier. It puts you in the know of local pet-friendly areas and events, helps you find a pet sitter or walker, and has a new pet guide to help get you started on your pet parenting journey. Scritch also helps you connect with other pet owners by creating a personalized feed of other community members and social media posts. This app is sure to put important resources and connections at your fingertips.
Bringing your first dog home can be a mixed bag of feelings – joy, excitement, and some anxiety. It’s natural to have concerns when you’re a first-time dog owner. Make sure that you are prepared with the right apps and the right phone, and you’ll be a pro before you know it.
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